Matariki Williams wins $25,000 TCA | NZSA Writers' Award

The award backs her book on the life and art of Robyn Kahukiwa, in development with Penguin Random House.

By The Book Source25 September 20261 minute read

Writers' AwardMatariki WilliamsBook on Robyn Kahukiwa

Matariki Williams has received the 2026 Tāwhia Copyright Aotearoa (TCA) and New Zealand Society of Authors (NZSA) Writers' Award, worth $25,000.

The award supports an untitled book on the life and work of artist Robyn Kahukiwa. Williams is developing it with Penguin Random House, Christchurch Art Gallery, Season Gallery and Kahukiwa's whānau.

The selection panel was convened by Vanda Symon, with Jade Kake and Vincent O'Malley. The panel noted that while Kahukiwa's art is instantly recognisable, little is known about her life, and said the book would bring overdue attention to her career. Panel members said the award is a way of marking the significant contribution Kahukiwa has made as an artist.

The award drew 47 applications. Liv Sisson, for a new nature book, and Elizabeth Cox were also shortlisted.

Original source: Kete Books ↗

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